2. It was reengaged southeast of Gavrelle on February 21, when it was in line during the attack. It took no prominent part in the offensive and was withdrawn about the 1st of April.
Somme.
3. On April 7–8 it came in line south of Hebuterne, where it was engaged until April 16. After eight days’ rest it came into line south of the Ayette, relieving the 195th Division on April 24. It was not withdrawn until July 24.
Alsace.
4. The division moved to Muelhausen, via Belgium and Germany, a trip of 10 days. While at rest there it was frequently alerted in anticipation of an expected Allied attack in that region. On September 4 it returned through Germany and Belgium to Douai, where the British were attacking.
5. It left Douai on September 22, detraining at Dun sur Meuse on September 23. From there the division marched to the front.
Meuse-Argonne.
6. On September 27 it was engaged at Daunevoux. It was engaged throughout the entire Meuse-Argonne battle on the American front. At Montfaucon it was forced back with heavy losses. The division affected relief by regiments, which were sent to close support to be reconstituted by drafts. Five hundred replacements were received early in October. The initial company combat strength averaged 60 men. On November 4 this had been reduced to 20. During the retreat of November 1–2 the division crossed the Meuse and took up a position on the east bank.
VALUE—1918 ESTIMATE.
The 5th Bavarian Reserve Division was rated as a second-class division. Apart from the Meuse-Argonne offensive, it did not see much heavy fighting during the year. Its effectives had been almost completely used up by the time of the armistice.